[2banana]

Harsh Geography

As compared to what? Sweden? Alaska? Utah?

Corrupt Leaders

Socialist murderous tyrants does not even begin to describe them.

The legacy of Colonialism

Yeah damn those white people for bringing roads, electricity, medicine, engineering, the rule of law etc. Things got alot better when they were all kick out or murdered out...

Corrupt Western States more interested in their companies profiting then actual improving the countries they deal with. We give them aid then sell them weapons.

As compared to any other country in the world? Hate to tell you this but capitalism actually improves countries, socialism destroys them...

[Sthitch]

I have to agree with him on the legacy of Colonialism point. There are a number of issues caused by colonialism, the most important are the unnatural borders that it produced. The European powers created countries that split tribes, and also included peoples that hated one another. This allowed for the second point to occur (corrupt leaders -- I prefer despots). They also did not build many roads, hospitals, or bring the rule of law. In most cases, the only roads that were built were from the ports to the mines, or fields. The medicine was only in the cities, and there were no schools for the native population. The way that the European powers treated Africa was horrendous, and the worst of the lot were Germany, France and Belgium. No of these countries did much in the way of preparing the former colonies for independence, and Belgium and Germany have completely turned their back on their former lands.

[kingsurfer]

Harsh Geography

Africa is known for its harsh geography.
You have jungle, desert etc etc, you also have elephants, lions, poisonous snakes etc etc. Men without cars or guns are not at the top of the food chain.

While the Colonial cbuild orads and other infrastructure they did not dshare the wealth they exploited form the country with the indigens, so they remained poor and uneducated.

Capitalism can improve countries but only if the money is not spirited straight out of the country into someone elses pockets.

Free Trade anyone?

Why do you think most Western Countries still use protectionism?